As you emerge from another long, harsh winter, it's time to think about your roof. Most roof damage occurs before it's visible from the ground so it's best to catch it early.

First, when you take out the ladder to do the inspection, make sure it stands on solid level ground and is secured at the top, extending three feet above the gutter. A good rule of thumb is to position the ladder so it stands one foot away from the roof for every four feet of height on the roof.

Here are some things to look for during your inspection as recommended by the National Roofing Contractors Association:

Shingles that are buckling, curling or blistering.

Loose material or wear around chimneys and pipes.

Excessive amounts of shingle granules in the gutters.

Also be sure to inspect interior walls and ceilings for water damage. If you do spot a problem, call a professional roofing contractor but not before reading our article on finding the right contractor.